Brazil Gears Up for Key Innovation and Business Events Supporting Entrepreneurs in 2026

Brazil is set to host several significant innovation and entrepreneurship events in 2026, aimed at fostering startups, connecting business leaders, and transforming ideas into viable ventures across the country.

In Curitiba, the Innovation Fair of Vale do Pinhão will take place on March 20 and 21, transforming the city center into a vibrant showcase of innovative ideas, technologies, and solutions. Startups, growing companies, and well-established businesses are invited to participate, with registrations open until March 10 via the Curitiba Agency for Development and Innovation. Municipal Secretary Paulo Martins emphasized the event's importance for brand strengthening and visibility in a high-traffic area, noting Curitiba's strategy to encourage entrepreneurship and future-focused planning. Dario Paixão, president of the Curitiba Agency, highlighted the fair’s role in building a culture of innovation and preparing the city for the upcoming Smart City Expo, which promotes further integration and innovation visibility.

Meanwhile, the second edition of the Business and Connections Fair (FENEC) is scheduled for April 10 to 12 in Teixeira de Freitas at the Temóteo Alves de Brito Exhibition Park. The launch event will be held on March 3 at the Sebrae auditorium. FENEC aims to inspire and connect entrepreneurs, business leaders, and investors, enhancing the local economy through technology and business relationships. Sponsored prominently by Sebrae and Sicoob, the event builds on the prior year's success. Alex Brito, Sebrae's local manager, stressed the fair’s significance in regional development, while Coopmista’s president, Walsilene Maffei, expressed hopes to surpass previous outcomes.

In Campina Grande, the fifth edition of the Impulse Campina 2026 acceleration program started accepting applications from March 2. It offers 40 positions for innovative projects primarily in early development or ideation phases. Open to individuals and teams from Paraíba municipalities, the program provides 14 weeks of mentorship, entrepreneurial training by the Wadhwani Foundation, and opportunities to connect with investors and commercial partners. Secti Secretary Fabiana Gomes underscored the program's role in transforming ideas into market-ready enterprises that can generate economic and social impact.

These initiatives reflect Brazil’s growing ecosystem for innovation and entrepreneurship, with multiple cities hosting events and programs designed to nurture startups and promote innovation-driven economic growth.